What Causes the Smell of Burning During the Break-in Period of a New Car?
2 Answers
The reasons for smelling a burning odor during the break-in period of a new car are: 1. Short circuits in the vehicle's wiring; 2. High-speed driving causing the tires to overheat; 3. Using the recirculation mode in the car. Methods to reduce strong odors in a new car include: 1. Placing fruits with strong adsorption capabilities like grapefruit peels, pineapples, and lemons in the car; 2. Using white vinegar, which has disinfecting and cleaning properties, inside the car; 3. Utilizing activated charcoal to eliminate odors; 4. Removing protective films inside the car; 5. Opening windows for ventilation. Precautions during the break-in period of a new car are: 1. Maintain smooth starts, avoid sudden acceleration, and do not let the engine RPM get too high; 2. Ensure the coolant temperature reaches above 50°C before starting; 3. Start in a low gear and shift to a higher gear after one kilometer, keeping the coolant temperature between 80°C and 90°C while driving; 4. Choose good road conditions to avoid excessive vibration, impact, or emergency braking, and disengage the clutch before braking; 5. Use high-quality fuel and engine oil, and avoid using engine wear additives.
I also encountered a burnt smell when driving my new car. It's quite common during the break-in period right after getting a new vehicle. The main reason is that all the components are still adapting to each other, especially the new brake discs and pads in the braking system, which can produce a strong burnt odor during initial friction. Additionally, there might be anti-rust grease or protective coatings near the engine that start burning off after a few high-temperature cycles. I remember being quite worried when I noticed the distinct smell after my first highway trip, but later learned from friends that this usually disappears after a few hundred kilometers of driving. However, it's important to pay attention to the intensity of the smell - if it's particularly pungent and accompanied by strange noises or visible smoke, it could indicate issues like electrical short circuits or belt slippage. For safety, it's best to pull over and let the car cool down when you notice the smell, then check the tires and engine area for any abnormalities. While such occurrences are common during the new car maintenance period, they shouldn't be ignored. Getting it checked at a service center promptly will give you peace of mind.
